Time to shine for these Spurs

Spurs beat writer Jeff McDonald breaks down a few players trying to catch someone’s eye, be it the Spurs, another NBA team or a foreign team, when the team’s Summer League squad begins play this afternoon in Las Vegas:

Alexis Ajinca, C

NBA experience: 3 years

Summer assignment: Spurs are always looking for another big man. The 7-foot-2 Ajinca has been mostly a bust since being drafted 20th overall by Charlotte in 2008. A solid summer could force Spurs to think long and hard about him.

Ryan Richards, F

NBA experience: None

Summer assignment: It’s unlikely Richards, a second-round selection in 2010, earns a roster spot this season. Development work with Spurs coaches couldn’t hurt prospects down the line.

Eric Dawson, F

NBA experience: 1 year

Summer assignment: Former Sam Houston High standout made NBA debut with Spurs last season, playing in four games. With a strong summer, camp invite should be a lock.

Derrick Byars, G/F

NBA experience: 1 year

Summer assignment: Vanderbilt product finished last season on Spurs’ roster, and he appeared in two games. Another player looking for a training camp call.

Alexis Wangmene, F/C

NBA experience: None

Summer assignment: Just play ball. The former Texas standout — and adopted son of general manager R.C. Buford — had his college career ended a month early by a broken wrist. Vegas will provide first organized action since then.